Laurel and Hardy’s finest work is arguably to be found in the two-reelers of the late twenties and early thirties, and it is fair to say that they were at the height of their powers when they made both Two Tars and Big Business.  Both films end in scenes depicting mass destruction of property, leading some critics to accuse them of being repetitive.  However, it is precisely because you know what’s coming next that makes these scenes so funny.  After their protagonist has dealt the first deliberate blow, and they give a sideways glance to the camera – or, as in Big Business, take their overcoats off – you just know it’s all going to end in tears – tears of laughter for the audience.

Stan Laurel said, “We didn’t want to go into feature films in the first place, and even though I’ve got some favourites among them, I’m sorry we ever did go beyond the two and three-reelers.”

Year: 1928/29